A Clean Crib or the Strength of Oxen

I have to admit that I was approaching my quiet time with haste this morning. I thought to myself that I would search Proverbs for a quick verse to meditate on throughout the day. Well, God is merciful. Despite my hastiness, He blessed tremendously.

This is the verse I landed on:
Proverb 14:4 Where no oxen [are], the crib [is] clean: but much increase [is] by the strength of the ox.

This verse contains valuable advice to those in business and agriculture. It basically means that the cost of your tools is worth the production gained.

But how about listening to God speak through this verse to moms who are full-time, those who homeschool, even to the who have allowed the Lord to bless them with more children.

Can I tell you that right as I type these words I am surrounded with clutter. There are two hampers with clothes in them, toys scattered about and randomly situated on my coffee table is a handful of cheerios, a rock and stick, and a camouflage hat. Dare I say my crib is not clean?!?



I can sit here and reminisce on the days before we decided to have our vesectomy reversal when I had just the two daughters who are clean and organized and were old enough to take care of themselves. Yes, before our newest little blessing was born our house was usually spic and span. Those days are over, especially as I now have fourth one on the way.

But could the benefits out way the the costs or in this case mess?

The toys in the floor are a sign of new life, a curious and energetic little guy who has much more energy then I. Could God use his new young energy to help a lost one find The Way or to simply glorify and bring joy to our Maker? Maybe he will be a blessing to a young lady as he seeks to lead her spiritually and provide for her. If so, what do a few toys in the floor mean to me?!? The clutter is a clear sign that production is underway, and this is my way that I can serve the Lord by doing my part. Cheerios on the coffee table mean that life is thriving in my home.

This was his project while I was typing this post.
Ripping a paper napkin and putting it in a bowl he got
out of our pantry.

Yes, I am raising up a new generation to worship and praise the Lord for his Goodness and to share this joy with others! (I am getting the vision more clearly now.) When I think on these things the mess... well, it just seems minor.

I have been encouraged by this and I do pray that you will be too. Now, I think I will clean this place up. We will see how long it stays clean. ;)